Marble Flooring – Marble Floors

Marble Flooring

Marble Flooring has become increasingly popular in the last 5-10 years. Aside from its beauty, marble has several obvious benefits to homeowners. Besides being used as flooring, marble is also used in countertops and backsplashes.

Not For The Feint of Heart – Or Wallet

Marble flooring can give your home an aura of richness. It definitely has a natural beauty that quite surpasses most other flooring materials. For this reason, marble is quite expensive. In addition, it is very heavy and so must be installed by professionals, adding to the cost. Marble also must be frequently cleaned and sealed, also by professionals. The maintenance costs do begin to add up.

All-Natural Substance

Marble is a natural stone product. As such, it is completely biodegradable, making it a favorite among environmentaly-conscious homeowners. Marble is bacteria, allergen and moisture resistant (when sealed).

Suitability

Marble is very hard, durable and long lasting. Marble is more porous than granite, and so it is critical that it is sealed if using in areas that will be exposed to moisture. Marble flooring can stain if not sealed properly. Marble flooring is less hard and less durable than granite flooring but not so much that you really need to worry about it getting easily damaged.

Marble can be used in kitchens, bathrooms and entryways, due to its resistance to moisture and for its durability. However, bear in mind that it has to be professionally sealed and cleaned every 9-12 months, depending on the amount of foot traffic it is exposed to.

Do-It-Yourself – Leave It To The Professionals!

We advise you not to attempt installation of marble flooring unless you are a seasoned do-it-yourselfer or a professional. There are several reasons for this. One, marble is very heavy; you don’t want to end up hurting yourself. Two, it requires extreme precision and know-how to install. Installation, even in the flattest and squarest room takes lots of experience to know how to do correctly. Three, repair jobs are often very difficult and complex. Cracked or broken marble requires a professional to repair it.

You should always get more than one estimate if you are considering purchasing marble for any purpose. Below are some key points to consider when choosing a company to purchase and install your marble:

1. How much experience do they have?

2. How will any repairs, should they be needed, be handled?

3. What kind of performance guarantee do they offer?

4. How long will the job take (realistically!)?

Maintenance

Aside from the professional cleaning and sealing that will be needed every 9-12 months (depending on foot traffic), marble flooring is relatively simple to keep clean. Simply sweep well and go over with a damp mop. Do not use abrasive cleaners! Not only is it not necessary, but marble will stain and scratch if you do. Marble is virtually indestructible, hence its high cost. Additionally, it will last a lifetime with proper care.

Your marble flooring dealer should be able to give you product recommendations for cleaning.